Still Alive In The Mohawk Valley, NY

The Mohawk Valley....Steeped in History

2012-02-01T10:08:00.003-05:00

It's about a half-marathon to run here from Whitestown, but you can run along some really cool secondary roads past babbling brooks and rolling country roads to get there. Or of course you can drive. You end up here at the site of the Battle of Oriskany which like the plaque says; "was one of the bloodiest and costliest battles of the Revolution". There was not a family that was not affected by the over 600 casualties inflicted on the Americans and our Oneida Indian allies that day, and it's impact is evident in this area. Several towns, villages, streets and even an aircraft carrier, were named after this battle or participants in the battle. Visit this site, when the weather gets a little better. Walk the hills and remember, the sacrifice that the Tryon County militia and residents of the Mohawk Valley made that day, for liberty and freedom. And a few miles down the road stop in to Ft Stanwix Monument and museum in Rome if you have never been there or haven't been there in a while.

Ice as Art Series...

2012-01-28T10:58:00.000-05:00

if you get a chance check-out my "Ice as Art" seriesat www.patrickhuther.blogspot.com

Raining our way into February....

2012-01-28T10:17:00.001-05:00

Where am I??? I listened the other night as the rain beat on the side of the house all night long. I jogged in the rain at least twice this week and the creek behind my office is swollen. If it was April I would shrug and say simply; "It's mud season in the Mohawk Valley!" but it's the end of January. Typically we've battled 5o inches or more of snow at this point and have settled into average daytime temps of 15-18 degrees. Really makes one wonder...if nothing less, the weather here in the Mohawk Valley gives us something to talk about other than politics. Anyway, it's sunny out! It's a great day to go for a walk or jog and enjoy the spectacular snow-free view of the Mohawk Valley. Go out and make it a great weekend!!!

Trenton Falls

2012-01-23T09:40:00.002-05:00

Thought I would share this autumn image of Trenton Falls which is one of my favorites. It is a shame that the falls are only opened a handful of weekends a year in summer and fall because I would love to see it in winter and when there is unrestricted flow over the falls. I have a limited number of these prints available and is sized to 2o" x 13" for $95 unframed and $295 matted and framed

January....

2012-01-21T12:57:00.001-05:00

Snowed a few inches last night but the roads along the Valley View golf course are quite accessible for walkers or runners to enjoy the beautiful views here. This photo is looking northeast towards MVCC. Rain is forecast again for Monday which should melt away the rest of our base again

A corn-field and crows near a farm in the town of Paris

Rathbone Memorial

2012-01-18T18:51:00.002-05:00

a favorite spot for me to jog, xc ski the Parkway is a great place to take in a sunrise or sunset because it sits so prominantly over the Mohawk Valley and the City of Utica

Winters Back? At Least For a Few Days....

2012-01-16T13:13:00.003-05:00

Barn Near Clinton, NY

Barn near Poland, NY

Barn Near Sauquoit, NY

Cooper Hawk

More...more...more...

2012-01-14T11:05:00.001-05:00

check out my art site if you'd like to see a little more of some of my more expressive work.at: www.patrickhuther.blogspot.comThanks~Yasu

Bruce Lee famously said "Be Water" his philosophy on how he approached the martial arts. This piece is part of my "Simply Organic" series and inspired by his words

Winter On Hold...

2012-01-07T11:04:00.000-05:00

Winter has been put on hold here in the Mohawk Valley so I thought I would share some summer photos I took in Clinton, one of my favorite local villages that still retains much of it's historic character and charm....along with an appropriate and favorite TS Eliot quoteFootfalls echo in the memoryDown the passage which we did not takeTowards the door we never opened~T.S. Eliot

Kirkland Art CenterNow available: 8 x10 prints available 15.95 plus ship. 16 x 20 75.00 plus ship 24 x 30 135.00 plus ship matte, semi-gloss finish (can do on metal(for a 3-season or outdoor space) or canvas for additional charge). You can either pay by check or MC or Visa if you prefer, as I do all transactions through my business; IGC Graphics, 4340 Middle Settlement Rd., New Hartford, NY 13413 USA. Thanks so much for your interest and kind comments about my work!

Hamilton Inn

Village Green Fountain

Winter...or just a tease?

2012-01-05T17:41:00.000-05:00

Whether you like winter or not you have to wonder about now whether this global warming stuff is hitting home, sort of speak. A very mild and wet (rainy) winter thus far with less than 10 inches here in New Hartford. a few "local" winter images from my book "I Love NY Barns". Scheduled to be printed last August, I have delayed production because after proofing...the artist in me said that I just "had to" clean up some marginal photos and include some more interesting closeups and barns...anyway, I'll post as it gets closer to print againWinter Comes To The Farm.Farmers here have had a good jump on the spring chores because of the mild winter. It's nice to see the landscape covered in snow, quiet and asleep...

January....so cold, so quiet, so dark and turbulent at times. Yet, you still feel the life and the steady pulse of nature, and this is reassuring. It is a time to meditate, contemplate, and plan for the year ahead...

Happy New Year!

2012-01-05T17:36:00.001-05:00

December Images

2011-12-20T14:37:00.004-05:00

Utica Downtown 12/16

Utica Downtown 12/16Now available: 8 x10 prints available 15.95 plus ship. 16 x 20 75.00 plus ship 24 x 30 135.00 plus ship

December Images

2011-12-14T17:45:00.002-05:00

Whitesboro Middle School

UticaHigh on a hill overlooking the city below, you see little of the imperfections. The higher you go the less you see.

Sunrise Whitestown

December Images

2011-12-12T14:55:00.001-05:00

These mature apple trees in this orchard are unique and hauntingly beautiful silhouettes against a backdrop of fog and the sun trying to peek through.

Orchard in New Hartford,NY

Moon over Whitestown

more December images

2011-12-05T12:07:00.003-05:00

beautiful December clouds and sunsets over the Mohawk Valley

Views around the Valley in December....

2011-12-03T11:26:00.005-05:00

I thought I would share some "non-traditional" views of December in the Mohawk Valley. We get so caught up in the hustle and bustle and glitz of the holidays we often miss the subtle beauty around us this time of the year

~Dec 5

~Dec 4

~Dec 4

~Dec 3

~Dec 2

View Southeast from New Hartford
Dec 1Apple Tree Sunrise, New Hartford

Does Anyone Miss Winter?

2011-11-28T10:47:00.003-05:00

Except for the snow we had a few weeks ago, we had an exceptionally mild November. Most here don't complain and seem to resolutely accept that the snows and cold will inevitably come. And when they do, watch out. Meanwhile, the warm temps allowed me to do a lot of outdoor projects I had put off while I was doing a lot of long-distance running-training this season.

image: Utica Early Winter Skyline From Near Utica Zoo

Icy Adirondack Images

2011-11-19T18:16:00.003-05:00

see more at:
www.patrickhuther.blogspot.com

Autumn around Utica

2011-11-07T13:16:00.000-05:00

Late Autumn Images

2011-10-26T17:04:00.004-04:00

Upstate Autumn Foliage Photos

2011-10-20T15:36:00.006-04:00

Accessibility to the great outdoors....

2011-10-12T12:30:00.002-04:00

Every year the power company "graciously" opens up the Trenton Falls to the public on four weekends a year. You hike about a quarter mile alongside a massive and obtrusive pipeline and then are afforded access at a few spots, to mostly obstructed views of the once mighty and magnificent Trenton Falls. The power authority controls water flow now and restricts access to the site except for the few times a year it allows guests in. So, out of town visitors who would like to see the falls should check to make sure the falls are open when they are visiting. Even harder to access, is the falls above (Prospect Falls) in the nearby Village of Prospect. The Village of Prospect maybe should take a look at the beautiful falls in Chittenango (see below) as an example of how allowing access to the public could bring in thousands of visitors to their town. Unless they like it the way it is. Although Chittenango can be a difficult climb down to enjoy the view from the canyon bottom looking up to the falls, at least it is accessible to admirers and even fishermen. The way it should be. NYS needs to work harder to make more of the states scenic and historic spots more identifiable and accessible, and not kept hidden secrets.

Trenton Falls, Oct 2011

Chittenango Falls, Oct 2011

Chittenago Falls, Oct 2011

Autumn in between the rain...

2011-09-22T09:28:00.003-04:00

We are starting to get some of the first dramatic colors of autumn here in the Mohawk Valley, so try to get out in between the deluge of rain we've been getting to enjoy the view. One of the best spots to see the colors is at Roscoe Conkling Park in Utica. Walk around the "Eagle" T. Proctor Memorial area and hike into the Old Forest Cemetery to see some beautiful and spectacular old trees and color.

Chaotic and strange weather in the Mohawk Valley...

2011-09-10T09:42:00.005-04:00

Very strange weather indeed. After a rough last couple of weeks, hopefully now we can settle into an autumn of sunshine, and lots of fall color and beauty (some of the flowers and insects during-and after the storms). Receiving an unprecedented amount of rain that created much flooding in flood prone areas, as well as many areas that had never experienced flooding previously. Many areas are still in a state of emergency, and today finds many others trying to dry out from these unexpected hits from 2 hurricane remnants (tropical storms).

Many schools remained closed on friday. Well if nothing less the weather as usual here in the Mohawk Valley gives us much to chat about other than the mind-numbing politics that go on around here. But we won't go there...as for me I'm headed outside to catch up on some much needed yard-work, and building maintenance at my business. And hopefully the weather will hold out long enough to enjoy a run or walk through Root Glen. ~Cheers!

A Visit with New Hartford Garden Artists; George & Louise White

2011-09-02T14:06:00.001-04:00

Turning Stone Races...

2011-08-21T14:43:00.003-04:00

A pretty good inaugural race for the Turning Stone half-marathon/10k/5k. I ran the half-marathon and am nursing some tired legs, so I'll be brief because I am a little cranky and think I'll take a nap. It was a beautiful and pastoral location for a 13.1 except for the few miles where we traversed busy highways. Although there was a very strong police presence and the time of the day we ran traffic was minimal.
All in all I have to give this race a good rating and one which I may run again. There was food(bagels,fruit) but no beer available like advertised, and if you wanted to use the $10 free gaming you had to go into the freezing casino and go to the "Diamond-desk" to claim your freebie. Other than that and the lame expo, I had a pretty good time and experience racing in a 13.1 right here in the Mohawk Valley!

The Erie Canal; The Pathway to The West; Photos of Erie Canal Little Falls Group2

2011-08-17T15:07:00.005-04:00

One of the Mohawk Valleys most well known legacies except maybe the movie; "Drums Along the Mohawk", is the Erie Canal and this old classic song; "Low Bridge Everybody Down". most Americans know and can recite at least the first verse. The Erie Canal was an engineering marvel whose opening hyper accelerated the expansion of this country into the west. Little Falls was known for it's amazing set of locks that brought boats and passengers through 3 tiers of locks up the edge of the valley and down into the village.The 3 locks until recent years was the highest lift lock in the world at 40.5 feet

Low Bridge, Everybody Down
(Written by: Thomas Allen in 1905)

I've got a mule, and her name is Sal,
Fif-teen miles on the Er-ie canal,
She's a good ol' worker and a good ol' pal,
Fifteen miles on the Er-ie can-al,
We've hauled some barges in our day,
Filled with lum-ber coal and hay,
And ev'ry inch of the way we know
From Al-ba-ny to Buff-a-lo

Low bridge ev'-ry bod-y down,
Low bridge for we're com-in to a town,
And you al-ways know your neighbor,
You'll always know your pal,
If you've ev-er navigated on the Er-ie can-al

A Visit to the Past... visiting Little Falls photo group 1

2011-08-15T14:39:00.003-04:00

I'll share some interesting views from a visit to the Little Falls Canal Days celebration on Saturday. Although the event turned out to be a yawner, I enjoyed walking along the canal and seeing a bit of Little Falls heritage-legacy as a canal port and mill town on the Mohawk River. Unfortunately, much of the canal park area has been neglected. A motorcyle even pushed us along and off the walking path. What started out as a great idea, seems to be badly neglected now. The vendor tents seemed to be the major attraction as a handful of shoppers milled around the tents, and very few people took the mile or so hike out to the lock on Moss Island. Surely having the information booth manned, during the event would have helped greatly, but the booth along the canal was closed when we attended. Little Falls suffers from a similar problem found in towns like Herkimer and cities like Utica. The problem is that at some point, they allowed the DOT to put major arteries across their urban landscape, with no regard to maintaining the character and allowing easy access, much less building with historical character and accuracy, as well as exploiting interesting views.

If you like running hills and beautiful mountain vistas.....

2011-08-08T09:50:00.009-04:00

Thought I would take in an easy 10K run this weekend and found myself challenged by a most difficult run. The Lane 10K in Speculator was pockmarked with at least a dozen hills including several that could be described as cavernous. Combine that with humidity of nearly a 100% and you've got one challenging course.

At the start

You're treated to occasional beautiful vistas and views

huff-puff at the finish 49:30 place 18/87

All and all it was a great race-run albeit a very challenging one. Once underway, it was just you against the course with the occasional challenge from competitve runners. For you non-runners out there Speculator is a great place to visit; there is a beach with parking. So, swim and take in the view of the mountain vistas, kayak on the Kunjumuk or on Lake Pleasant. And you're able to walk a short distance (1/8th-1/4 mile) down the street to get some lunch or dinner after.

Sunset over the Mohawk Valley

2011-08-06T12:02:00.002-04:00

A moment, and its glory was no more. The sun went down beneath the long dark lines of hill and cloud which piled up in the west an airy city, wall heaped on wall, and battlement on battlement; the light was all withdrawn; the shining church turned cold and dark; the stream forgot to smile; the birds were silent ...~C. Dickens

Around Utica...

2011-07-28T16:27:00.004-04:00

Grace Church

Masonic Campus church

Genesee Street former bank Bldg

Corridor in Munson Williams Museum adjoining Fountain Elms

RR Watchtower with Utica Club Brewery in background

Hot Moon

2011-07-18T18:07:00.002-04:00

I call it "Hot Moon" because the moon on Saturday seemed to reflect the hot humid weather we had, and will have for the next 4 or 5 days. The dog days of summer are often reflected in the evening sky as well as in the hot steamy sund drenched days and hazy skies of daylight....starting to look forward to the cool of autumn.

Utica Boilermaker 2011; A Testament to The Great Things That Can Happen In This Community!

2011-07-12T09:05:00.009-04:00

at the start

mad dash to the finish

Competing in my 26th Utica Boilermaker with 13,000 15K runners from all over the world and the USA, was definitely an inspiring and uplifting experience. The first 2 miles though was an obstacle course as I found myself bouncing off of, and around, runners who seeded themselves in faster groupings.13,000 runners is definitely the maximum number and more thought should be given to policing the seed, and subsequently maintaining the quality and competitiveness of the race. I was seeded 4003(yellow bib) with my previous time of 1:15:51 and finished 2,256 place this year and in 2,457th place last year out of aprox 13,000 runners/11,000+ finishers. Next year if I do run the Boilermaker, I will have reseed myself to get a green bib number to avoid the increasingly large number of much slower runners who seed or get seeded inaccurately. After the "thinning out" of runners by mile 3, the race quality improves dramatically, and you enjoy having space to run and take in the thousands of spectators and entertainment venues on the course. There seemed to be more spectators this year on the course as even formerly barren stretches on Champlin Ave., were lined with hundreds of people cheering us on. The final mile was densely packed with thousands of spectators making the last leg and dash for the finish, an even more exciting and exhilirating experience. The post race party was super, with plenty of entertainment, beer, and plenty of food and drink for thirsty and hungry runners. The big disappointment was the cancellation of the long awaited military jet fly-over, substituted with a lone commercial helicopter which flew over at the appointed time of the jet fly-over. All-in-all, had another great Boilermaker experience and a great time in Utica, NY. The warm and receptive crowds, the Utica scenery and beautiful weather and the great job by the race committee proved that Utica definitely is the "City With A Warm Heart".

Me going the last mile....

My son running in the 5K

With some friends and my son

Boilermaker this weekend!

2011-07-07T10:14:00.005-04:00

Can't believe it's Boilermaker weekend already. Seems like yesterday I was running the course last year, and then enjoying a cold beer at 9:30 in the morning. This will be my 26th Boilermaker 15K race and I am looking forward to another exciting opportunity to be a small part of the event. Even if you are not running, get up and grab a cup of coffee support and enjoy this spectacle! The fighter jet fly-over will be a part of this years event once again, as well as the assemblage of bands, thousands of spectators, and 17,000 registered 15K and 5K runners. A great testament to what can happen when we work together in the Mohawk Valley!!!

2010 Boilermaker

This Summer....

2011-07-07T09:40:00.004-04:00

Ahhhh, what to do this summer? A few possibilities depending on where your interests lie....

Old and New Forest Cemeteries off Oneida Street in South Utica, is an interesting escape on a hot summer day. But take a walk through time under the canopy of the tall stately trees you will find cooler temps and quiet places next to ponds to reflect. The statues and memorials here are beautiful and thought provoking examples of a by-gone era of craftsmanship,wealth, strong family,locality and religious devotion.

USS Oriskany Monument. Worth a quick picture op visit is the USS Oriskany Monument in the Village green in Oriskany. Dedicated to the aircraft carrier "Oriskany" the monument features one of the ships anchors and a jet from the carrier. There is a small museum there, but was not open when we stopped.

Adirondack Park. The border of the park is less than a half-hour away. The park is the largest park system in the US and is a must see and do this summer, for anyone living or visiting this area. There is much information on things to do and see for just about everyone, so a simple google search will open up a pandora's box of opportunities to camp, swim, kayak, hike-bike-run. Also,the Adirondacks are a shoppers mecca.Places like Old Forge, Lake Placid and Lake George have an exciting array of hotels, restaurants, shopping, theme parks, micro-brews etc. All of which offer a little diversion after a day in the wilderness.

Springtime in Utica...

2011-06-16T14:28:00.009-04:00

The Peony is the official flower of Utica, and since it's spring....well anyway...

I love the outdoors and hiking/running in some of the areas more scenic "outdoorsy" areas of the Mohawk Valley. But you have to love running-walking and taking in the many sights, sound and smells in areas around downtown Utica! The interesting people and architecture, as well as the deliciously intoxicating smells eminating from the many restaurants(Vietnamese, Italian-many, American-delis and grills, Japanese, Cambodian to name a few) in the downtown area, make it one of this runners favorite places to jog and take in the many sights, sounds and smells....Give it a go sometime, especially if you are visiting us this summer. If you're not staying at one of the hotels on Genesee Street, you can park for free on Bleecker or Court or State Streets. For a 5K-10K run, I prefer to park by Union Station, and then work my way Southeast towards Bleecker and over by Rutger Street Park (historical homes area) and follow Park Ave to Oneida Square for 5K or up to South Utica (Uptown Theatre area), and then back down Genesee Street past Munson Williams Museum, taking as many side streets as I have time and stamina for. It's certainly a different sort of run or walk then my "usual". But it's one I'm seldom disappointed in. As I often see, smell, and hear some really cool and great things you would never see out in the isolated spots I normally run or walk. Enjoy.
~Yasu

Our Legacy; The Erie Canal

2011-06-06T09:34:00.004-04:00

I took my son to visit the Erie Canal Lock 20, and just "assumed" he had been there before. I was slightly embarassed to find out this was his first official visit to see the canal even though we lived just a couple miles away...oops. I figured his school or his mom or "somebody" had brought him down to show him the history and heritage of New York's Erie Canal. Anyway, we enjoyed a beautiful day in Lock 20 park along with joggers, bikers, picnickers,campers, fishermen and just the curious like us. Even got to see a yacht going through lock 20! You can park (just off rt49) at the park or get there by bike or hike on the canal trail system. We will either run or bike the leg from Utica to Rome this summer so watch my blog for some photos and my thoughts as I traverse the ol Erie Canal from Utica to the Copper City(Rome).

Great Way To See The Adirondacks!

2011-05-10T17:33:00.003-04:00

All aboard right in downtown Utica and bound for the Adirondacks, riding in climate controlled coaches, or take in the fresh, clean air in their open car, through remote forests, past sparkling rivers, over bridges, tranquil ponds and streams, into the magnificent beauty of the six million acre Adirondack Park....a Great Way For Everyone To Enjoy The Beauty of The Adirondack Mountains! check it out at... www.adirondackrr.com

Tornadoes and Flooding...April goes out like a lion that "Baa's"

2011-04-29T11:13:00.004-04:00

Although there was widespread flooding in our area and 2 official tornando touchdowns, the winds and rain have finally subsided. Hopefully now we can settle in to a gentler May, to enjoy the beautiful spring here in the Mohawk Valley!

took above photo last night at Whitestown Town Park preceding photo on Wednesday in Whitesboro

"Moonstruck" by Patrick Huther

2011-04-28T09:43:00.001-04:00

Clouds come from time to time -
and bring to men a chance to rest
from looking at the moon.
~Basho

Beautiful moon and clouds in April over the valley!

Spring has sprung in the Mohawk Valley!

2011-04-28T09:19:00.003-04:00

The run of warm weather and plenty of rain has catapulted the MV from the last remnants of winter, and right into late spring and summer like conditions in the last few days....even need to mow the grass already :(. Anyway, enjoy if you're a local, and for those who don't live here, I'll post spring photos from around the area.

I Love NY Barns

2011-04-18T17:55:00.000-04:00

In the pastoral rolling hills of many Upstate New York
communties, barns have been fixtures and landmarks for as long as most can remember. Tragically, every year so many of these wonderful structures fall in or are taken down as these family farms become neglected or close, forever changing the landscape and the face of these communities. The book should be printed sometime in late summer. The book will be available for $28.95 plus shipping, and include pictures and paintings of over 60 barns plus some interesting stories, poems and writing.

Boilermaker Filling Up Fast!

2011-04-11T16:35:00.002-04:00

If you're planning on running this years Boilermaker Road Race in Utica, you should sign up soon. It was reported that there are now over 7100 registrants with a cap of 13,000. This is well ahead of last years registrations at this point.

Amsterdam, NY

2011-04-04T18:07:00.002-04:00

Like many upstate NY cities, Amsterdam has struggled to "find itself" in the post Erie Canal/Manufacturing era that defined much of the upstate NY area. As factories shut down, and the Erie Canal's usefulness as a commercial transportation link to the western part of ths state eroded, so has a great percentage of the states population.
Amsterdam still has a strong foundation of it's historical architecture in place, hopefully to be the cornerstone of the resurgence of this once prosperous city.

Beautiful Early Spring Day in the Valley!

2011-03-27T13:55:00.006-04:00

Starting with the beautiful moon this morning....

....sunrise and into....

the day...and then...

Utica Retro Series Now Available....

2011-03-24T10:39:00.002-04:00

42 x 30 " framed as set....I have other images of this series also. If interested please e-mail me @igcgraphics@verizon.net

B52 at Griffiss Business Park

2011-03-22T09:18:00.003-04:00

Recent news events remind me that much of the recent history of the Mohawk Valley includes the 40 years or so that Griffiss and the military was a significant part of the valley. The thousands of Air Force personnel, it's aircraft, contractors, and associated businesses, were an important as well as visible part of the areas economy from WW2 until the end of the "Cold War" and until the base closed in the mid 90's. Still today, the military defines Griffiss Business Park and the city of Rome, as this is the home of the Air Force Laboratory and the military accounting offices, as well as the NEAD's (Northeast Air Defense) which includes a few thousand military personnel and civilian contractors located in the confines of the business park.

I even remember walking my dog in Roscoe Conkling Park by the "Eagle" just before the start of the first Iraq war. It was early evening when you could ominously hear the squadron of B52's "powering up" and then taking off. The B52's mysteriously circled the Mohawk Valley for quite a while, upwards of an hour or so.They most likely were awaiting their orders to go to war. I would needless to say only learn of this later when President Bush announced what the B52's were up to. Anyway, the last remnat of this legacy of the Mohawk Valley is parked at the entrance of the former base now turned business park in Rome. It is worth a look as you can park near the plane and see this piece of military and Mohawk Valley history up close.

Prayers and peace to the people of Japan

2011-03-16T10:31:00.001-04:00

The ocean can be a sanctuary of untold beauty, calm and reflection.
A provider of food and opportunity for life...
As we have become all too familiar with in the last few days....
......she can also be a dark and cruel mistress bent on undoing in one fell swoop, all of the best laid plans of man in a few moments. -Patrick Yasu Huther

The Art of Patience & Impermanence

2011-03-05T12:01:00.002-05:00

In late fall last year, I enjoyed watching these Buddhist Monks at Hamilton College as they labored away on this beautiful and incredible sand art. After working on for several days they simply brush away all their hard work and craft. Illustrating the impermanence of all life and things on earth.

Mohawk Valley Barns

2011-02-25T18:14:00.000-05:00

Part of the character of the Mohawk Valley....

2011-02-17T15:20:00.003-05:00

...is our rolling hills and pastoral farmlands. Farms dot the Mohawk Valley and I love taking photos of and painting many of our local landmarks including barns. This barn is located in Barneveld. The piece is 16 x 20" acrylic paint

Utica Sunset

2011-02-16T13:32:00.001-05:00

When I admire the wonders of a sunset or the beauty of the moon, my soul expands in the worship of the creator.
Mohandas Gandhi

Like watching the geese fly south in the fall, this time of the year I'm often envious as I watch the jets fly high over head, of those people I imagine in those planes, who might be heading to beautiful and warm, sunny, destinations.

Photos 02.14.11

2011-02-14T12:45:00.003-05:00

The "Eagle" Roscoe Conkling Park, Utica, NY

"Maple Tree and Home" Utica, NY

Octagonal House, Newport, NY

Eagles In The Adirondacks

2011-02-07T18:35:00.002-05:00

I was inspired to do this painting when I canoed down Evergreen lake in the Adirondacks, I was startled by an American Bald Eagle as he lifted off a treetop and flew along the treetops and then off into the clouds. What a magnificent site that I will never forget! Acrylic Painting 16 X 20"

Views of Utica 02.07.11

2011-02-07T17:28:00.000-05:00

Utica, NY 02.2011

2011-02-07T12:27:00.000-05:00

Working With Winter -Not Against It.

2011-02-02T10:00:00.000-05:00

Skiing near Val Bialas, Utica, NY
After an exhilirating early evening XC ski 1/2 mile uphill climb, you're rewarded with a magnificent sweeping view of the city lights below. Add a backdrop of the sun setting over your shoulder against a remarkable contrasty pallette of inky and cerulean blues, and salmon and sherbert orange colours. No matter when, or how many times I venture up, the view always takes my breath away.

Exciting Opportunity For the Mohawk Valley...

2011-01-28T11:08:00.003-05:00

I try to stay out of politics and the economy on this site...but I was quite excited by my recent visit with my son to the SUNY Albany/Sematech Nanotech Research Facility.

CNSE hosts 100 Mohawk Valley business and community leaders
The College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (“CNSE”) of the University at Albany hosted more than 100 business and community leaders from the Mohawk Valley on January 19. The visit was prompted by the growing partnership between CNSE and SUNYIT to enable nanotechnology-related education, innovation, and economic development.

Read More....

http://www.cnse.albany.edu/Newsroom/MediaCenter/PhotoGalleries/2011PhotoGalleries/CNSEhosts100MohawkValleybusinessandcommunity.aspx

Additional Utica Retro Look Photos

2011-01-17T10:23:00.003-05:00

More Utica, NY Retro Look Photos

2011-01-10T16:19:00.002-05:00

More Old Forest Statues

2011-01-10T14:13:00.001-05:00

Utica Retro Photos

2011-01-05T18:50:00.003-05:00

Love or hate Utica, you have to admit the city has a lot of character. It is so apparent if you take the time to get out of your car and walk around the downtown area.

I have many images available for sale if you are interested you can see more at:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=319159&id=55953941662&saved#!/pages/IGC-Digital-Graphics/55953941662

New Forest & Old Forest Cemetery Statues

2010-12-22T15:12:00.001-05:00

Worth a hike into the 2 cemeteries off of Oneida Street in Utica to see some wonderful statues and mausoleums.

City Of Utica Winter Images

2010-12-18T09:49:00.000-05:00

The Adirondacks, One Of New Yorks Best Kept Secrets

2010-12-13T12:31:00.002-05:00

One of our areas best assets is our proximity to the Adirondack Mountains...it is truly one of the most beautiful places in the US if not the world...

A Beautiful Mohawk Valley View

2010-12-09T17:09:00.003-05:00

I've enjoyed the view here for many years in every season, and I thought I would share these 2 photos with you of the view from Val Bialas in Utica, NY., because they are photos that encompass much of the character and heritage of the Mohawk Valley. You can see much more this time of the year because the foliage blocks much of the view in the summer months until the foliage drops. The churches, the brewery, schools, psych ctr, farms and homes that can be seen from these 2 photos, are an incredible snapshot of our area.

How many landmarks can you identify?

Whitesboro Middle School Haunted?

2010-12-06T16:28:00.002-05:00

Took these photos recently as I have been interested in learning more about some of the more unusual attractions in the Mohawk Valley with the Whitesboro Middle School being one. One story goes that Whitesboro Middle School-
Clock tower is haunted by a decapitated football player. Who can be seen wearing his jersey while holding his head. Anyone has a different version...let me know?

Utica Autumn Beauty

2010-11-29T15:46:00.003-05:00

The scenery is certainly one of the finer points of living in the "Valley" heres ome photos I took a few months ago...hope you enjoy!

Almost Winter...

2010-11-18T12:55:00.002-05:00

Well it's almost winter here, and the birds are hungrily attacking the feeders and the grasses and milkweed trying to send off their seedlings to survive and find a place to survive the hard frosts and snow, until spring warms the grounds again...

Late Autumn in The Mohawk Valley

2010-11-06T12:26:00.001-04:00

1st photo looking south on Rt 12 from Deerfield

2nd view -just off Seneca Tpk in New Hartford

Winters Coming...

2010-11-04T12:06:00.000-04:00

Trenton Falls

2010-10-20T16:32:00.002-04:00

Every year for a few weekends they open Trenton Falls to the public...it was a spectacular day for a walk and me and my son took advantage of this rare opportunity to see a wonderful local natural attraction

Utica In The Fall

2010-10-14T10:06:00.001-04:00

autumn, all ablaze with bright colors, contrasted with the somber hues of November...better that we remember it so!"
Pat Huther-October 2010

Autumn in the Mohawk Valley

2010-10-05T10:35:00.002-04:00

Hopefully the color will improve a little with the cooler-damper weather...anyway it's still spectacular in the Mohawk Valley so get out there and enjoy as the season (leaf watching season) is too short!

The Segovia Connection

2010-09-13T09:15:00.003-04:00

Our family is hosting an exchange student from Segovia, Spain. So, last Friday I decided to take the whole visiting group on a "historic" tour of the Mohawk Valley.
We went first to the Oriskany Battlefield site where we met with Allan Foote who gave an outstanding presentation on the battle while fending off hordes of mosquitos.
Next we toured Ft. Stanwix where the group and enjoyed the museum, the fort and it's reenactors. Finally, we went to the Shako-wi Cultural Center on the Oneida Indian Reservation where Kandice Watson gave us a history aand tour of the museum, the reservation and the casino. All of which gave the group from Spain an interesting historical and cultural perspective of the Mohawk Valley. The groups favorite part of the day was the the visit to the Indian nation, disappointed that they could not peek into the casino or the "Lava" nightclub.

Ed's Meat Market

2010-08-03T13:08:00.012-04:00

I parked my car in front of the bank and walked past the fire department building and then the Alexander Hamilton Inn. As I walk by one of the little boutique stores, a little old lady came out of the shop just ahead, and the bells jangled as she shut the door behind her.

Grandpa was standing behind the counter wearing his white apron and white paper hat, chatting with an elderly lady customer when we opened the door to his butcher shop. The door had bells tingled as we walked in, and then had a loud jangle as the door slammed shut. The pungent aroma of ground meat and spices was in the air. Grandpa was making sausages or hot dogs today, which meant we could be enjoying them when we visited for dinner tonite. Grandpa always brought home whatever was freshly made that day, or whatever did not sell. I hoped that it would be the hot dogs.
Grandpa looked over at us and smiled. Dad walked over to one of the chairs and sat down. I looked in the meat case and looked at the different meats Grandpa had displayed in the case. There were some sausage links and some assorted beef and chicken meat on display. Also there were customer orders wrapped in white paper which had names of customers on them. The elderly lady finished paying Grandpa for the order. Grandpa took the ladies money and placed the money in the old wooden cash register and Grandpa said to the lady; "thank-you and say hello to Jim for me".
Grandpa said; "hello Donnie, hello Pat", and asked us if we would like to walk with him to the bank and then maybe we could go and get some fresh apple cider at the cider mill. Grandpa took his white apron and paper hat off, grabbed his deposit bag and walked around the meat case and to the door. He put up a handwritted sign that said; I will be back in 15 minutes -ED We walked out together and I heard the bells jangle as the door slammed shut and Grandpa turned the key in the lock.
I looked up at the steeple of the church across the street and the village green when someone in front of the fire department said; "Hi Ed, what looks good today? Got any nice roasts?" Grandpa said; "Not today,got some nice pork chops though".

I stroll along and look up at the church which is now the Kirkland Art Center, just like I had done many years ago walking with Grandpa and Dad. I was glad that not a lot had changed here in the Village of Clinton. The businesses are different now, and many buildings are different colors including the church. Unlike much of the Mohawk Valley area, Clinton has retained much of the character and charm it has had for the last hundred years. As I walk past the fire department and the building where Ed's Meat Market used to be, I hear Grandpa's gentle voice. Grandpa says; "I'm saving some hot dogs for us tonite!".

Reflections In Downtown Utica

2010-07-21T12:37:00.007-04:00

I was walking back to my car after a less than satisfying lunch at an oriental restaurant. The taste of cheap Bancha tea still in my taste buds. When the dark reflection in the dark store window a few doors down caught me by surprise. The reflection looked like a stranger. Someone else, not me. Someone who was much older than me. I looked once, then twice, and even a third time, ultimately confirming the "older" man was not someone hiding behind me it was me. I glanced back at the dark abyss one last time, and then headed towards my car parked just past the gold-domed bank.

I looked around as I started up my car. I looked around and thought that this was an older and different Utica than the one I remembered seeing for the first time in
1972. Much has changed. No more vibrancy or bustling activity as shoppers came and went from the Boston Store, Woolworths or Neisners. I drive past the "busy corner" where the buildings which housed Ball's and Mellos and several other thriving businesses, was torn down and replaced with an empty park and a curious liberty bell replica. A fading sunrise is painted and peeling on the adjoining brick building.
Next door the architecturally and historically important entrance to downtown Utica; the Devereaux Bldg was torn down and replaced with another small park.

Uticans decided that it was important to give up their past and to look ahead to a bright "new" future. The past was the past. Heritage and history had become a chapter in the history books for our children to learn about in school, and for old people to reminisce about as they sit around the senior centers or historical society meetings. Utica and it's suburbs are pockmarked with attempts to hide and disguise the past. Old was ugly, so we tore down the old city hall designed by famous architect Francis Upjohn and build a "beautiful new" Sheraton. Main Street and Utica was hacked into quarters and left isolated and devoid of character as a massive bridge was built on Genesee Street. Baggs Tavern and the Children's Museum sit in the shadow of this attempt to cover up and to start anew because of the "old" was bad, new is good syndrome. Beautiful old churches deteriorate and decay. Old Main sits vacant, and the buildings and neighborhoods around her are weathered by neglect... more to come

Saranac - Matt Brewing Company - Time flies..when you're enjoying your favorite beer!

2010-07-15T11:59:00.002-04:00

After running 25 Boilermakers I still have to say this is my favorite part even at
9:30 AM!!! Cheers! click below...

Saranac - Matt Brewing Company - Time flies..when you're enjoying your favorite beer!

Utica on A Hot Summer Evening

2010-07-07T09:21:00.004-04:00

Went to the sidewalk artshow at Munson WIlliams last night and it was a great evening
to walk around and take some images of downtown since there were very people and not much traffic...

The Universal Language of Soccer...

2010-06-22T12:18:00.003-04:00

My colorful U12 team includes: 2 Somali-Bantus, 1 Thai, 7 Bosnians and 5 home-grown Utica boys. Oh yeh, I was born in Japan (the Japanese are said to be the earliest players of soccer know as "Kemari" in Japan)

I coach youth soccer in Utica, and I can also be found playing pick up soccer with "the boys" at Proctor or at the field on Middle Settlement Rd., when I can find the time and the energy.

Whether I am coaching or playing, whether the players are homegrown Americans or recent refugees from Bosnia, Somalia, Thailand or Burma, there is one thing in common we all have; a pure love and joy for the sport of football-soccer. Ask any of these players about the outcome of recent World Cup matches, and they'll know not only the score, but most details of the game as well. This love of sport transcends our language barriers as I will often be approached at Proctor Park by Burmese boys who want to share a soccer field with them, or have Somali-Bantu boys wanting to "spar" with me and my soccer ball. They will play until there is no one left to play with, and only go home when there is no more light on the field.

When my teams practice they want to practice and scrimmage with our teams and when we have games they often come to watch. As a soccer purist, it is a delight for me to see the amount of activity there is on any given night at Proctor and South Parks in Utica. Refugee families are often out on weekends or evenings with their players, sharing in their favorite past-time. They enjoy the comraderie, the fun, and the beauty of being outdoors in the park on a beautiful summer day or evening.

You don't have to understand or love soccer to appreciate all that soccer does to help bridge people from all over the world and especially here in Utica. Some lovely summer evening head down to Proctor Park and catch a game under the lights, look around and listen, and experience soccer like millions of people around the world do every day.

Is Rt 840 Destroying A Sensitive Wildlife Area?

2010-06-14T09:58:00.001-04:00

The heavy usage by hundreds of residents daily, is a testament to the success of the DOT's Rt 840's recreational trail system. It affords the opportunity for many who normally would not have the opportunity, to get close to nature and all if affords.

It is not unusual to have families of geese or ducks resting in the grass with joggers or walkers passing closely by. Turtles often cross the walkways as they leave the marshes to find nesting sites, and deer often can be seen at waters edge at dawn or dusk.

Unfortutely, the irony is that many of these same animals that seek tranquility and safety, soon meet their demise as they cross or fly-over Rt 840. The 840 roadway was built right next to a section of treeless and exposed trails, and is only a 100 feet or so, from the edges of the marshes where you can often see ducks and geese swimming or resting in the grassy areas next to the road. These same animals find that the tranquility and peace they seek in this formerly secluded marsh, are threatened in much the same way the animals that once occupied the marshes between Sangertown and Commercial Drive were. Although the DEC tried to maintain duck nesting sites and to encourage certain species of wildlife at Sangertown, most have moved on or were hit by cars, as they tried to fly in to the marsh areas. And the same thing happens every week along 840. Next to the marsh area, hundreds of small birds, ducks, geese, turtles, fox, woodchucks and occassionally deer are run over as they attempt to cross or fly over to enter or leave the marsh area.

It leaves many to wonder why the DEC and it's planners would open up and expose a wildlife area like this, and put thousands of animals at risk without making some provision for this. Perhaps the best solution now might be to build a wall like the one that they put up in NY Mills to help discourage the wildlife from entering or leaving from the roadway area of Rt 840. Also, an added benefit would be that it would help buffer recreational users of the trail from annoying road noise and distraction.

This is especially important with new construction (New Hartford school bus depot, hotel, office bldgs) being proposed on both sides of 840. Wildlife should not be "squeezed" into ever narrowing areas of green areas set aside for them. Especially in a period when the area is not growing, but is diminishing in size. And we certainly cannot afford to subsidize careless and poorly planned suburban sprawl that is destroying not only pristine wildlife areas, but the character of the community. Just like at Sangertown Square, we will soon see fewer and fewer creatures along the 840 corridor, only more cars, paved lots, and resultant noise and pollution. Things which will only diminish the quality of life that we love here in the Mohawk Valley.

Spring At Root Glen, Clinton,NY

2010-05-13T12:13:00.000-04:00

Cultural Diversity In the Mohawk Valley

2010-04-22T14:58:00.004-04:00

One of the "good" things to happen in the MV is the addition of the ethnically diverse immigrants to arrive here in the last 20 years. I coach soccer and whenever I am at Proctor Park in Utica, there will be dozens of Somali, Sudanese, Burmese, Thai, Bosnian etc. boys and young men looking to play some pick-up soccer. Drive around Utica and you will see many restaurants and shops that reflect this cultural influx. I love to stop in to restaurants like the Pho Mekong Noodle House, the Balkan or the Lotus Garden, and talk to the shop owners, and to try some of their favorite "picks".

Above a couple of soccer players from Proctor Park

Winter Fun

2010-03-01T17:37:00.004-05:00

Just some winter fun, adventure, scenery during-after last weeks snowstorm....

Building a snow-fort

View of the Mohawk Valley from Valley View-interesting contrast is that the Boilermaker Road Race goes right down this road in July.

Beautiful view of the city below....time to head for home!

Yes, In My Backyard...

2010-02-17T08:33:00.000-05:00

PRISON TOWN, U.S.A. free film screening & discussion
Date: Thursday, February 25, 2010
Time: 6pm Location: KUNSELA AUDITORIUM, SUNYIT

What is it like to live in a community where prisons are the largest employer? Join us for a screening of “YES, IN MY BACKYARD” and discussion about the impact of prisons in Oneida County. Have the prisons of Oneida County sparked economic growth or have they destroyed it? What is the economic history of Oneida County and what should its future hold? The discussion will be led by Lauren Melodia, Soros Justice Fellow at the CCA.

YES, IN MY BACKYARD (1999) Directed by Tracy Huling is a documentary about the people of Coxsackie, NY and the prisons they work in. Once a thriving farm community with a solid base of small manufacturing and a busy main street on the banks of the Hudson River, the community of Coxsackie now hosts two state prisons that are the largest employers in the county.

Sponsored by SUNYIT Criminal Justice Program and the Center for Community Alternatives (CCA), Syracuse
For further information, contact: Lauren Melodia
lmelodia@communityalternatives.org
315.422.5638 x308

The Only Way To get through the winter...

2010-01-29T17:56:00.002-05:00

although it is subzero today, get off the Wii's and the computers and get out and enjoy
a good x-country-ski or go sledding (before the kids get too old and you look nuts out there sledding by yourself or with your wife) I always enjoy Val Bialas but in Whitestown the town park is good and close by.

2010-01-25T09:01:00.004-05:00

Our areas best hope of renewal both physically and mentally is a strong core in Utica and Rome.

Which means careful consideration and agreement in planning and then the careful use of resources. The N Genesee Street bridge creates both a physical and psychological barrier to

downtown. Eliminate the bridge and use the ramp for traffic to Genesse Street and this would go a long way to linking up the Auditorium area, Union Station area, Downtown, North Utica and Harbor Point. I picture visitors that have gotten off the thruway strolling along Genesee Street headed back and forth to restaurants, hotels, boutiques and historic spots from the canal all the way into downtown area.

I'll say. At least the old Genesee Street bridge (1914-68) put you out into Bagg's Square going southbound. A passenger in a car could actually see something off the side of the bridge, there were sidewalks on both sides, and it had weirdness on its side (3 rows of truss girders plus concrete). Clearly the Rockefeller era bridge of today was designed & finalized by the firm of Someone Who Doesn't Live Here. As revenge I am building a replica on my model railroad.

R.B. Phillips, Utica 1954-73

Start the New Year Right...

2010-01-05T18:23:00.004-05:00

It is always better to work with nature than to work against her. Whenever I feel winter closing in on me, the best solution I find is to go out into nature, use all of your senses and truly see the subtle beauty of a winter sunset, feel the biting winds on your cheeks, hear the tiny chickadees calling to each other, smell the clean purified air. At times you may be a little uncomfortable, but soon you are excited and warmed by the beauty, the purity and solice.

May all of you find peace and happiness in the year ahead!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

2009-12-23T17:30:00.003-05:00

Barn in Holland Patent

I hope you have enjoyed following my blog this year. I try to focus more on some of the "good" things we enjoy here in the Mohawk Valley. Please pass along any ideas or suggestions you might have for 2010. Have a wonderful Christmas season and a happy, healthy and prospeous 2010!
Pat

A city of contrasts on Thanksgiving Day... A Sleepy Downtown Utica Skyline...Parkway alive and vibrant

2009-11-30T09:45:00.005-05:00

Thanksgiving Day is a quiet day in downtown Utica, in contrast I took these images after the "Turkey Trot" at the Parkway which was alive and vibrant with hundreds of runners who chose to get up and out, and to help feed the needy.

Holiday Stroll In New Hartford Friday, 11/20 5-9pm

2009-11-19T15:39:00.004-05:00

Photos from last years stroll

While you're out and about next Friday after the Thanksgiving holiday, be sure to check out all the holiday cheer at theNew Hartford Holiday Stroll. Santa arrives at 7:00pm.

"Open Up" Downtown

2009-11-12T10:30:00.003-05:00

A Beautiful Evening Walking North on Genesee Street

Genesee Street with it's many historic and beautiful buildings clearly hold the key to the resurgence of Utica and the surrounding areas. Something that needs to be seriously looked into is the removal of the the bridge that creates a four corner divide not only with the downtown area, but also a divide between the North Genesee Street area and downtown. Every year tens of thousands of visitors get off the thruway and stop at hotels, restaurants and gas stations. When they look south all they see is that big "hump" of a bridge. The remedy would be to look into the feasibility of tearing down this bridge and utilizing the little used entrance to Genesee Street that exits to the right before the bridge heading south. Tearing down this bridge would unite all four sections of downtown including Union Station and the Baggs Tavern historic area, and create a more scenic and appealing entrance into Utica. This would really benefit any consideration of developing the Harbor Point area and to stimulate growth on the vacant lot areas next to the Auditorium.

A Proud Past...A Past We Need To Build On...

2009-10-23T09:48:00.005-04:00

Every year that which gives Utica it's character and uniqueness crumbles away or torn down and disappears forever, except in our memories or the images we might have captured. You are in denial if you believe that there is any good in this. Utica has nothing without it's past, and any future prosperity will be built on what's left of the solid foundation of Utica's uniqueness and it's history. The old buildings that have survived and served, and been a part of generations of Uticans lives, should be kept alive as a testament and a reminder of a once strong and vibrant Utica. To tear down any more of our past, is only a sad but unfortunate reaffirmation by so many people, that newer and younger is better. There is too much of that going on in our suburbs, where much of the community is void of any character. You move through these communities and they look much like a thousand other communities throughout the US. Through the last few years I have attempted to capture much of the beauty and uniqueness that is the Utica area. I hope by highlighting the jewels of the Mohawk Valley, you've also been inspired to find a way to bring attention to, to protect, and most importantly to appreciate all we have to build on here. If not,

much of it will be gone soon.

Check Out This Painting at the NH Library

2009-09-09T13:09:00.004-04:00

If you enjoy local historical artwork you might enjoy checking out this charming painting of the Village of New Hartford from 1791-1984. It was commissioned by Savings Bank of Utica and hung for many years in the lobby of SBU and it's subsequent buyers including M&T Bank who donated the painting to the New Hartford Library. The painting done by Clinton, NY native Alba Scott in 1984, includes several well-known landmarks such as the Presbyterian Church, Sherrill Brook Bandstand, Butler Hall and the Point School. You can view this work at it's new home in the New Hartford Public Library.

Taking In A Classic Movie at The Stanley Theatre....

2009-08-19T11:45:00.007-04:00

The last few weeks the Stanley has featured "classic" movies on Tuesday nights.

Last week it was "Ben Hur", this week it was "Pillow Talk". I was a little skeptical when my wife first suggested going, but I must admit I thoroughly enjoyed watching the movie. Plus enjoying an outing into downtown Utica on a balmy summer evening, along with the ambience of the beautiful Stanley Theatre, and you have a winner for an inexpensive and fun outing.

Give it a try...there are 2 more movies coming up. 7Pm on Tuesdays. Cost $5 and the Stanley

is air conditioned and they sell popcorn and drinks which you can take to your seat.

Take a Walk Around New Hartford...

2009-08-11T13:00:00.005-04:00

View of the Presbyterian Church from behind Butler Hall

Butler Hall from Presbyterian Church Parking Lot

NH Veterans Park-Utica National In Background

Veterans Park, New Hartford

A beautiful summer morning, and what better way to spend it then walking around in the Village of New Hartford. If you have time, get a window seat and a coffee at Casab's and watch as the world goes by. Then start your walk around the village by crossing Genesee Street and make your way up Oxford Road past the high school, and then enjoy a walk though the shady tree neighborhoods, and enjoy the many beautiful gardens, historic homes and churches along the way. If you're a real glutton for punishment, push your way up Paris Road to enjoy the lovely old homes and gardens. Save a few minutes and stop by to see and to pay tribute to New Hartford Veterans, at the Veteran's Park and the new reflecting pond across from Utica National. The village walk seems to be like stepping back in time, and the Veterans Memorial helps us to reflect on those who helped to make our way of life possible. Enjoy.

Boilermaker 09-Utica Shines!

2009-07-12T18:07:00.004-04:00

Me at Last years 08 Boilermaker

Start line 08 Boilermaker
by Finish Line Photos

Just relaxing now and savoring the memories of the 2009 Utica Boilermaker 15K Road Race. This event showcases much of what is so great about living in the Mohawk Valley. Over 14,500 runners registered to run in todays 15k and 5k races today. I would guess conservatively there were well over 20,000 people cheering on and supporting the runners on a beautiful summer day in Upstate New York. Runners who did the 15k, enjoyed running though several different multi-ethnic neighborhoods in East Utica, all while enjoying the beauty and scenery of the Mohawk Valley. They experienced the "International Mile" with it's belly dancers, Polish and Irish dancers, and other ethnic music groups and dancers. They had to run up the grueling Valley View golf course hill amidst the beauty of the Valley View Golf Course and the sight of the other side of the rolling hills of the Mohawk Valley as they begin the downhill out of the golf course. As the runners descended into South Utica, they were greeted by various Utica Zoo animals and their caretakers, thousands of spectators cheered them on as they ran through South Utica. Running past hundreds more in Uptown and Murnane Baseball Field, they begin another of the Boilermakers infamous challenges, Burrstone Road. Today was unusually cool and breezy, most times it is sweltering and hot as you run uphill into the hot, humid, July morning sun. It has been the nemesis of many a good runner. Clear Burrstone and make the turn onto Champlin Ave., and you were greeted by many hundreds of spectators crowding the corner, there to cheer on the runners after the grinding climb. All along the race course there were more music groups, dj's and individuals, all playing music to keep the spirit of the runners and the crowd up. Running down hill now past hundreds more runners passed by Utica College and St.Lukes Hospital. Just a little further down Champlin, runners are encouraged by the children and staff of the House of Good Shepherd, and the 10foot tall Uncle Sam giving "high fives". Many hundreds more spectators are crowded along Champlin. The crowd swells by hundreds more along the corner as you make the final turn onto Whitesboro Street, heading towards the finish a little more than a mile away. The music is blaring out "YMCA" there, and several runners form out the "Y" "M""C""A" with their arms, and some even eeek out a little dance step or two. As you work your way down Whitesboro Street many runners are winded and tired and just when you don't think you have anything left the crowd grows by the hundreds and maybe thousands, as you approach the finish line. They all encourage you to finish, along with the leprechaun who wishes you; "Luck of the Irish", and the Scottish Bagpipe band, (my favorite for reviving my spirits) as you make the final downhill charge for the finish line.

more to come...

Utica Skyline...

2009-06-10T14:31:00.005-04:00

It's great inspiration to walk around downtown and take unique photos of Utica and the Utica Skyline. Often I'll use the photo for an acrylic painting or a digital media piece.

im fixin to move to utica/rome area... nice to see your photos and good comments...
city-data.com forum wasnt nice..to many negative people...
i have a 5 yr old with Down syndrome..and was looking for that ole home feel. as i grew up in burbia chicago
im in asheville nc..and while is beautiful here.. i just am wanting to move...
you'd love it here to take pics etc. Vanderbilt mansiobn is here.. aka Biltmore Estates
anyway.. thanks for the blog
d. taylor

Enjoying Spring in the Adirondacks

2009-05-27T12:29:00.002-04:00

No one home.

Panther Mountain, Adirondack Mountains

Ike's Isle, Adirondacks, NY

Last weekend did some kayaking and took some photos. The air was crisp and cool, the scenery was pristine. Even saw a loon and a couple of eagles. The black flies were horrendous when the wind died down. Sounds like the makings for a haiku.

Oneida County Soldiers At Gettysburg

2009-04-20T09:53:00.003-04:00

I wanted to share these photos with you because they mark the place many of "our boys" from Oneida County died. The battlefield of Gettysburg is only about 5 hours from here and is the site of the costliest battle ever fought on American shores. All told over 50,000 men gave their lives at this incredible battle, including many men of the 97th NYVI "Conkling Rifles" and the 146th NYVI Zouaves. The 97th marker is placed on the lines of the first day of battle, and the 146th marker is placed high on the hill called "Little Round Top". If you haven't been to Gettysburg, please go and pay tribute to all of the men who made the ultimate sacrifice to reshape the United States into a more perfect Union. And be sure to find the monuments that mark the spots where many from the Mohawk Valley fell, and never saw their beloveds and homes again. The fighting did not end there for many. In the ensuing 2 more years of war hundreds more Oneida County men would perish in the war.